Emerald Ash Borer Found in Omaha, Still Not in South Dakota

PIERRE, S.D. – Emerald ash borer has been found in Omaha, Neb., but it still has not been found in South Dakota.

"This brings the closest known infestation within 100 miles of the South Dakota border," says state forester Greg Josten. “The previous closest infestation was in Minneapolis and St. Paul in 2009.”

Ash is one of the most abundant trees in the state, making up as much as a third of the tree canopy in some communities. It is also common in windbreaks and native woodlands.

Emerald ash borer has not been detected in South Dakota yet. "We have a very active detection process in the state,” says Josten. "All the samples submitted or investigated so far have been found to be native borers attacking ash, not the emerald ash borer."

While the beetle flies to attack new trees, it moves between communities in infested firewood. Josten strongly encourages people to buy their firewood from local sources or purchase wood that is not ash.

The insect was accidentally introduced from Eastern Asia into Michigan sometime during the 1990s. The insect attacks all ash species, black, green and white, and once infested the tree dies within 4 to 6 years.

Agriculture is a major contributor to South Dakota’s economy, generating $25.6 billion in annual economic activity and employing over 115,000 South Dakotans. The South Dakota Department of Agriculture's mission is to promote, protect, preserve and improve this industry for today and tomorrow. Visit us online at http://sdda.sd.gov or find us on Facebook and Twitter.